Santa to make several visits to Newton during the holidays

Newton County residents were visited by Santa Claus Monday night in the United Bank building and were able to snap their own photos for free.

Santa Claus is making his way around Newton County this holiday season and is planning to attend several events in the area. Check out the list below to find a time and place that fits into your holiday schedule to see Ol' Saint Nick.

Now-Dec. 22: Santa's workshop has returned to Ramsey's Furniture Annex again this year. Special Moments Photography will take photos with Santa Thursday nights from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 pm.; no appointment necessary. Packages start at $25 and include a disc with copyright release. For more information, call Special Moments Photography at (770) 787-5730.

Dec. 1: Santa Claus will be in downtown Covington's annual Christmas parade Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. and departing from Newton Drive. The parade themed, "A Southern Christmas in Covington" will feature a variety of floats from local residents and businesses. The parade is hosted by the Covington Lion's Club and Main Street Covington.

Dec. 1: Social Circle will hold its annual "Lighting of the Tree" ceremony this Saturday at the city hall's lawn. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there along with hay rides and roasted marshmallows.

Dec. 2: For pictures and playtime with Santa, residents can go to GameTime SportsClub in Covington this Sunday. Admission is $15 per person and includes a slice of pizza, a drink, access to the indoor playground, painting an ornament and a visit with Santa. For more information call (770) 385-7288.

Dec. 8: Residents will have two opportunities to eat breakfast with Santa next Saturday. Allen Memorial UMC is hosting a free Santa breakfast, from 9am until 11 a.m. with crafts, music and pictures. For more information call 770-786-7414. The Pilot Club is also hosting a Santa breakfast at First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall in Covington. Tickets for breakfast are $5 and $2 for children 6 and under. For more information call (770) 851- 2585.